If you’re a fan of classic Canadian butter tarts but want a simpler, crowd-friendly version, these Butter Tart Squares are here to save the day. With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, caramel-like filling, this dessert is the ultimate indulgence.
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Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these squares are a true taste of Canada. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this iconic treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Canadian Butter Tart Squares Recipe
Butter tarts are a quintessential Canadian dessert, but making individual tarts can be time-consuming. These Butter Tart Squares offer all the same delicious flavors in an easier, more convenient format. The buttery shortbread crust provides the perfect base for the gooey, sweet filling, which is made with brown sugar, maple syrup, and a hint of vanilla. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
One of the best things about this Canadian Butter Tart Squares is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your preferences by adding raisins, pecans, or even chocolate chips. Or, you can keep it simple and let the rich, caramel-like filling shine on its own. No matter how you make them, these squares are a delicious way to celebrate Canadian culinary traditions.
The History of Butter Tarts in Canada
Butter tarts have a long and storied history in Canada, dating back to the early 1900s. They are believed to have originated in Ontario, where they quickly became a beloved dessert. The classic butter tart consists of a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Over the years, variations have emerged, including the addition of raisins, nuts, or even a splash of maple syrup.
These Butter Tart Squares are a modern twist on the traditional recipe, offering all the same flavors in a more accessible format. They’re perfect for those who love butter tarts but want a simpler way to enjoy them.
Ingredients for Canadian Butter Tart Squares
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This step ensures that your squares will come out of the pan cleanly and without sticking.
2. Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. This shortbread crust provides the perfect base for the gooey filling.
3. Prepare the Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a separate bowl until smooth. If you’re using raisins or pecans, stir them in now. The filling should be rich, glossy, and slightly thick.
4. Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Be careful not to overbake, as the squares will firm up as they cool.
5. Cool and Serve
Let the squares cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little extra maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Butter Tart Squares
- Use Cold Butter for the Crust: This ensures a flaky, tender base. If the butter is too warm, the crust may become dense.
- Don’t Overbake the Filling: The squares should be slightly jiggly when you take them out—they’ll set as they cool. Overbaking can result in a dry, crumbly texture.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Swap raisins for dried cranberries, or skip the nuts for a classic version. You can even add chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. These squares also freeze well—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Try this also :
Perfect Crookie Recipe
French Canadian Meat Pie
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These squares taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. They’re a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.
Can I freeze Butter Tart Squares?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What makes these squares uniquely Canadian?
The combination of maple syrup and buttery richness is a nod to Canada’s culinary heritage, especially the beloved butter tart. These squares capture the essence of this Canadian Butter Tart Squares its an iconic dessert in a simpler format.
Share you creation
These Canadian Butter Tart Squares are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of a classic butter tart without the hassle. With their buttery crust and gooey, caramel-like filling, they’re a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these squares are a little slice of Canadian heaven.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and bake up a batch of these irresistible treats today. They’re easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious—a true celebration of Canadian comfort food.
Canadian Butter Tart Squares: Easy, Gooey, and Irresistibly Delicious
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This step ensures that your squares will come out of the pan cleanly and without sticking.
- Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. This shortbread crust provides the perfect base for the gooey filling.
- Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- While the crust bakes, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a separate bowl until smooth. If you’re using raisins or pecans, stir them in now. The filling should be rich, glossy, and slightly thick.
- Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Be careful not to overbake, as the squares will firm up as they cool.
- Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the squares cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little extra maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar.